Top Lyon Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Lyon flies more under the tourist radar than it should—with UNESCO sites aplenty, 2,000 years of visible architecture, and some of the country’s best foodie experiences, the city’s one world-class adventure. You’ll learn about and see all the best spots on this walking tour, your local guide leading the way from the neighborhood of Croix-Rousse to the famous Vieux Lyon.

Most travelers think they’ve seen Lyon after walking through Vieux Lyon or tasting a bouchon meal. But what if I told you that the true charm of the city hides behind quiet courtyards, secret passages, and stories whispered through its cobblestone streets? Lyon reveals itself slowly and only to those who know where to look. Without a local guide, it’s easy to miss the city’s heartbeat. You might admire the Renaissance façades but overlook the hidden traboules. Lyon isn’t just about what you see, it’s about what you feel, and exploring alone means missing the warmth and rhythm of its everyday life. That’s why this Walking Tour in Lyon makes all the difference. Your local guide adapts to your curiosity, leading you through iconic sights and secret corners only locals know. Together, you’ll uncover Lyon’s beauty, history, the one most travelers never find.

The perfect introduction to France’s history-filled city, this hop-on hop-off tour of Lyon makes stops at several attractions. Enrich your visit with audio commentary in multiple languages as you listen to anecdotes about the city, its people, and its heritage. Your pass is valid for the whole day, so you can get down—and back on—as many times as you’d like.

Visit the streets of old Lyon by bicycle taxi and admire the historical monuments that abound. A fun alternative to being cooped up in a coach, the bike taxi offers an unobstructed view and an eco-friendly solution. Book a bike taxi for two adults and a child under six and, if you want a longer excursion, upgrade to also include the Presqu'île and the banks of the Rhône River.

Lyon’s old town is riddled with secret passageways and history. This immersive, guided walking tour begins at the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and takes you through the traboules (covered passageways used by silk workers to transport fabrics), to present-day silk workshops, and the Museum of Cinema and Miniatures, before finishing up at the Grand Hotel Dieu, formerly the city hospital, now a luxury hotel and shopping complex.

Lyon is one of the world’s most famous culinary hotspots. Learn why food is one of the city’s proudest traditions on this half-day small-group or private tour. Hear about the chefs who’ve left their mark on the city’s gastronomic scene while sampling French pastries, cheeses, and sweets at venues across the city.

Glide around Lyon’s UNESCO-listed historic center on an easy-to-use electric bike with this 2-hour guided bike tour. Cruise along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, pedal around the lush Tête D’Or Park and zip through the dazzling Croix Rousse tunnel, with its unique sound and light show. Stop along the way to admire landmarks like Lyon Cathedral, stroll around bustling Bellecour square and discover little known monuments and local haunts.

Take off from Lyon and make your way to the beautiful southern Beaujolais region. First, journey into a vaulted cellar for an introduction to wine tasting with two distinct wines and a local pastry. Then, pass by the 12th-century village, Oingt, to see its medieval monuments, and end your tour at a winemaker’s estate with more tastings.

Discover the temple of Lyon’s gastronomy on a 2.5-hour guided food tour at the iconic Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. This legendary covered market is home to the most emblematic food houses and renowned artisans that have shaped Lyon’s reputation as the gastronomic capital of France. Led by a passionate local guide from a family-run Lyon-based company, this tour takes you behind the scenes of Lyon’s culinary traditions. You will visit carefully selected, historic stalls and enjoy a variety of sweet and savory tastings, which may include cheeses, cured meats, traditional dishes, local pastries, chocolates and macaroon and regional specialties (tastings vary by season). More than a simple food tour, this experience offers an authentic local perspective, warm storytelling, and genuine encounters with the people who keep Lyon’s food heritage alive. A convivial and immersive way to discover Lyon through its flavors.

Pedal your way through Lyon on an exciting electric bike tour that covers the city from South to North. Start in the charming Vieux-Lyon, then ride along the Saône River, through historic spots like the Croix-Rousse tunnel, and discover highlights such as Tête d’Or Park, Place Bellecour, and the modern Confluence district. With an electric boost to ease your ride, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and learn about Lyon’s fascinating history.

A unique guided tour to meet the winemakers of the Rhone Valley North. You will be accompanied by a local guide, Justine Poncet, who knows the region well and will be able to talk to you all along the way about the history, estates, wines and secrets of the Rhone Valley. You will make stops to enjoy the magnificent views from the coasts! You will discover the Syrah and Viognier grape variety as well as Marsanne and Roussanne, the emblematic varieties of the region. You will enjoy exceptional white wines and red wines. You will discover the most prestigious wines of the Rhone Valley such as AOP Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, Saint-Joseph or Condrieu. We drive you in our luxury vehicle and everything is planned so that you just go and enjoy your day with us. The guide is here to share his knowledge, answer all your questions and accompany you to spend an unforgettable day.

Take a walk through Lyon's history with a private guide, and discover the small French city as it was during Roman days. You'll learn about the city's architecture and culture through curiosity-packed commentary that's sure to keep your interest piqued as you explore. Stories of Lyon lions and secret city passageways are among the highlights.

A truly private tour : This experience is 100% private: only you and your group — no strangers, no fixed routes, no imposed pace. Access to non-public traboules : Explore historic traboules that are normally closed to the general public, in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse, thanks to a licensed and authorized local guide. Living history, not tourist storytelling : Discover the key role of the silk workers (Canuts) and the French Resistance during World War II, through the secret passageways that shaped Lyon’s history. A flexible itinerary, tailored to you : The walk adapts to your interests: architecture, medieval history, local life, or UNESCO World Heritage. Led by a local expert : Your tour is guided by a licensed professional guide, specialized in private and cultural tours in Lyon. Carefully selected traboules : With over 500 traboules across the city, this tour focuses on the most meaningful and historically rich ones — many outside conventional tourist routes

Travelers that want to avoid a crowded tour bus—but see more than with a typical walking tour—shouldn't miss this comfortable, pedicab tour in Lyon. As you cruise through the heart of the city, see top attractions, from bustling Place Bellecour to the historic Theatre des Celestins and Cathedral Saint Jean Baptiste. Along the way, learn about Lyon's history from your guide, and see some of the city's ancient hillside passageways, called traboules.

A unique guided tour to meet Beaujolais winemakers. Explore the region from South to North via Oingt, one of the most beautiful villages in France! You will be accompanied by a local Guide, Justine Poncet, founder of "Sur les Sentiers de L'Oenotourisme", who knows the region well and who will tell you all along the way about the history, estates, wines and secrets of Beaujolais. You will make stops to enjoy the magnificent views from the coasts! You will discover the Gamay and Chardonnay grape varieties, the emblematic varieties of the region. You will enjoy exceptional white wines and red wines. We drive you in our luxury vehicle and everything is planned so that you just go and enjoy your day with us. The Guide is here to share his knowledge, answer all your questions and accompany you to spend an unforgettable day. - Wine tour Beaujolais from Lyon -

A unique guided tour to meet the wines and winemakers of the Rhone Valley North. I am Justine PONCET, founder of SUR LES SENTIERS DE L'OENOTOURISME. I am your local Guide, who knows the region well and will know all along the way how to tell you about the history, estates, wines and secrets of the Rhone Valley. You will make stops to enjoy the magnificent views from the coasts! You will discover the Syrah and Viognier grape variety as well as Marsanne and Roussanne. You will enjoy exceptional white wines and red wines. You will discover the most prestigious wines of the Rhone Valley such as AOP Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage or Condrieu. I drive you in my luxury vehicle and everything is planned so that you just go to enjoy your half day with us. I am here to share my knowledge, answer all your questions and accompany you so that you spend an unforgettable half day.

Explore the atmospheric Old Town of Lyon like a local with your foodie guide and a small group of budding gastronomes. Visit at least four different restaurants, bakeries, and artisan shops around Lyon, and indulge in Lyonnaise specialties such as pike quenelle (fish mousse) with rice, local charcuterie, and pink praline brioche, accompanied by regional wines including at least one alcoholic drink for guests over 18.

Part of the Rhône Valley wine region, Côtes du Rhône produces some of the most renowned wines in France, most notably its full-bodied reds. On this tour, enjoy an intimate tasting experience at two wineries in the Hermitage, St Joseph, and Croze Hermitage appellations, meet the winemakers, and sample a variety of Côtes du Rhône wines.

Discover the rich history and unique charm of Lyon on a walking tour through the elegant Presqu’île district and the historic streets of Vieux Lyon. Known as the gastronomic capital of France and a UNESCO World Heritage city, Lyon offers visitors a fascinating blend of Roman origins, Renaissance architecture, and vibrant local culture. Your experience begins at the iconic Place Bellecour, one of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe and the symbolic heart of the city. Surrounded by elegant buildings and lively streets, this historic square provides the perfect introduction to Lyon’s past and present. From here, your guide will introduce the city’s fascinating story, from its beginnings as a Roman settlement to its development as one of Europe’s most important commercial hubs.

Delight your palate in the unique flavors of France’s Beaujolais wines on a small-group tour from Lyon. This half-day Rhone valley excursion is perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking a short but comprehensive tasting experience. After a scenic transfer from the city center, learn about the local wine-making process in the Golden Stones area. Later, sample several regional reds and whites at a wine estate.

Cooking classes can be a great way to learn about a country’s culture, but not many let you navigate the markets where the food is bought too. Learn about Lyon cuisine on this half-day small-group experience, by exploring Lyon’s Croix Rousse Market and taking part in a cooking class before enjoying an authentic 4-course French lunch paired with cheese and wine.

Discover the wines of the Northern Cotes du Rhone wine-growing region on a full-day, small-group tour. After a scenic drive from Lyon, start the experience with panoramic views in Vienne, and an introduction to the region’s many grape varietals. Next, stop at the birthplace of Syrah and visit the Cotes Rotie vineyards. Tour a winery, explore the barrel room, and taste three wines before stopping for lunch (own expense). Then visit two more wineries and taste over a dozen varietals.

Beaujolais is one of the most prestigious appellations of the Burgundy wine region and opting for a small-group tasting tour means you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience. On this half-day tour from Lyon, explore the scenic Beaujolais vineyards, enjoy wine tasting at Chateau de Pizay, and learn the secrets of French winemaking on a winery tour.